By Faridat Salifu
In a bid to combat the challenges of desert encroachment and land degradation in Northern Nigeria, and the continued support to the Federal Government, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has commenced a 3-day Training the Trainers workshop for Technical Assistants to Nigeria Agro-Climatic Resilience in the Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory.
Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) is a World Bank financed initiative in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nation for technical support on landscapes restoration.
At the workshop, which kicked off on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja, the FAO representative gave an overview on the objectives of the workshop which include ensuring the participants have a clear understanding of what landscape restoration in accordance to the mandate of the project and how to coordinate the common policy issues between Federal and State, and between States.
As a critical component of the project, FAO proposed this Training of Trainers (TOT) workshop for restoration professionals and Master Trainers, who will be in charge of field operations in the States.
The project aims to address the alarming rates of desertification affecting the participating states which include; Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara States while also focusing on supporting ecological sustainability in states like the Federal Capital Territory, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Kwara and Kaduna State.
The initiative will leverage expertise in landscape restoration and innovative methodologies to ensure efficient implementation and restoration interventions.
This workshop will equip officials with knowledge and skills in landscape restoration, community engagement, quality restoration management, and the utilization of technology for land restoration.
In response to the problems posed by climate change, the National Park Service’s Conservator-General, Dr. Ibrahim Goni, underlined the park’s continuous advocacy for the proper protection of the seven parks.
Goni recognized that the ACReSAL projects have improved their operations, especially in the area of solar power installation.
Breakout sessions during the workshop will allow for in-depth discussions and brainstorming, ensuring that participants contribute their experiences and insights to develop action plans for implementation.
State delegates will also be given the opportunity to give presentations on their implementation of restoration projects, including their success and problems
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At the conclusion of the workshop, it is anticipated that participants will have a better understanding of landscape restoration practices, defined roles and responsibilities, enhanced coordination mechanisms between Federal and State bodies, and a clear vision for utilizing technology in land restoration efforts.
FAO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in building agro-climatic resilience showcases a proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable agriculture practices in Northern Nigeria.
